No cashiers at Walmart? Retailer tests self-checkout only at store in Arkansas

Would you go to a Walmart that didn’t have cashiers?

That’s exactly what the company is testing at a store in Arkansas, KNWA reported.

A representative for Walmart told the outlet that store No. 359 in Fayetteville has been converted to a self-checkout only location, according to the outlet. Walmart says it is an attempt to make the check-out process more efficient, with less person-to-person interaction, KNWA reported.

The store doesn’t have any cashiers, but hosts are on hand to help customers with anything they may need — including bagging groceries, KFSM reported.

If the new format works well in Fayetteville, Walmart said it could launch other self-checkout only stores across the country, according to the outlet.

But some people say the change could make grocery shopping at the location difficult.

“Very disappointing!” one user wrote on a Facebook video of the store. “No way I’m grocery shopping there anymore.”

“I hope it don’t work !!” wrote another. “They are making it impossible for older people to shop !! I hope it is a BIG flop !!”

“Pretty soon you will be expected to come unload the trucks!” wrote a third.

“I dont work for Walmart,” wrote another. “I avoid self checkouts...I prefer a cashier so our neighbors still have a job.”

Others say the move is welcome.

“The less ppl I have to deal with the better!” one person wrote. “Only use self check anyway. I think it’s great”

Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, Walmart has implemented a number of measures to help protect customers and employees.

Walmart installed sneeze guards at registers and pharmacies along with floor decals at entrances and checkouts to help customers maintain appropriate social distance, the company said.

Walmart stores are also limiting store capacity to roughly 20% and employees are required to masks, according to the company. They’re also subject to health screenings and fever checks before shifts, Walmart said.

This story was originally published June 14, 2020 at 1:14 PM with the headline "No cashiers at Walmart? Retailer tests self-checkout only at store in Arkansas."